Dallas Cowboys Select Jaishawn Barham in 2026 NFL Draft Third Round

With the 92nd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham, adding another versatile defender to their growing defensive unit.

Draft Selection Details

The Cowboys used their third-round selection (No. 92 overall) to draft Jaishawn Barham from the University of Michigan during Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft. This pick came after Dallas had already selected safety Caleb Downs in the first round (No. 11 overall) and edge rusher Malachi Lawrence in the first round (No. 20 overall) through a trade-up strategy.

Player Profile and College Career

Jaishawn Barham is a 6-foot-3, 240-pound linebacker who began his college career as a four-star recruit at Maryland in 2022. After two seasons with the Terrapins, he transferred to Michigan in 2024, where he became a four-year starter for the Wolverines.

During his time at Michigan, Barham recorded 98 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, five sacks (including four in 2025), five passes defended, and one forced fumble over 25 games. His performance earned him honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition in 2025.

Prior to transferring, Barham spent two seasons at Maryland, compiling 95 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks, an interception, two passes defended, and a forced fumble across 23 games. He earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors twice (2022 and 2023) and was named a Freshman All-American during his first season with the Terrapins.

Scouting Report and Cowboys Fit

Scouts describe Barham as an impressive overall athlete for an edge defender, possessing decent burst, closing speed, and smooth lateral movement skills. His frame shows potential to add weight while maintaining athleticism.

The Cowboys plan to utilize Barham’s versatility, deploying him both inside as a linebacker and outside as an edge rusher in their defensive schemes. His ability to play multiple positions along the defensive front provides flexibility for Dallas’ defensive coordinator.

Analysts note that while Barham relies heavily on his athleticism as a pass rusher and may demand technical refinement, his intensity, motor, and ability to beat blocks are considered top-tier traits. His explosive traits and inside-outside versatility project him as a potential future starter once his technique develops further.

Context Within Cowboys’ 2026 Draft Class

Barham’s selection represents part of Dallas’ strategic focus on bolstering their defense in the 2026 NFL Draft. With the Micah Parsons trade creating a need for additional pass-rushing talent, the Cowboys have targeted defensive versatility through their early selections.

The Cowboys’ 2026 draft class now includes:

• Round 1, Pick 11: Safety Caleb Downs (Ohio State)
• Round 1, Pick 20: Edge Rusher Malachi Lawrence (UCF)
• Round 3, Pick 92: Linebacker/Edge Jaishawn Barham (Michigan)

This draft approach addresses multiple defensive needs, including pass-rushing depth, linebacker versatility, and secondary help, as the Cowboys look to rebuild and strengthen their defensive unit following recent roster moves.